Shaila B. Manyam has been appointed the new Executive Director of the World Federation of Direct Selling Associations (WFDSA). Shaila brings extensive experience in global public affairs, having led strategic communications and stakeholder engagement efforts for governments, NGOs and international organizations. Her work has included high-level political and public-private partnership initiatives across sectors such as global health, gender equality and foreign policy. She has also coached senior leaders and authored thought papers on trade policy and geopolitical risk.

Before this, Shaila served as a U.S. diplomat with postings in Haiti, Israel, France, Iraq and Washington, D.C., holding roles that deepened her expertise in media, policy and international engagement. She holds degrees from the London School of Economics and Smith College, speaks multiple languages, and has received several prestigious awards for her service and humanitarian efforts.

“I am thrilled to welcome Shaila to the WFDSA team, and look forward to working with her to take the organization into even greater heights. Her extensive background in global affairs, public policy and strategic communications will undoubtedly strengthen WFDSA’s ability to address the challenges and opportunities facing our ever-evolving industry,” said Roger Barnett, Chairman of WFDSA.